Behaviorist Approach to Depression

Written by: Keith Vaughn

Written on: February 05, 2019

For the behaviourist, a person's observable behaviour is the primary object of consideration when assessing a mental condition such as depression. Factors that may shape depressive behaviour, including genetics and brain chemistry, are de-emphasised in favour of environmental factors.

Depression

Clinical depression is characterised by feelings of sadness and hopelessness sufficient to interfere with normal functioning. Those with depression also may experience changes in eating and sleeping habits, social withdrawal, loss of interest in activities once thought to be pleasurable and thoughts of suicide.

Behaviorism

Behaviorism is a psychological theory that suggests that human behaviour is adapted by learning. According to MentalHelp.net, behaviourists think depression is a learned behaviour that is possible to unlearn.

Reinforcement

Under behaviorism, a person may become depressed because of a lack of positive reinforcement for their behaviour and actions. A behaviourist therapist may help a depressed person adapt new behaviours that will lead to more positive outcomes.

Considerations

According to behaviorism, some depressed people may receive positive reinforcement such as sympathy and attention for depressive behaviour, prolonging the depression.

Therapy

According to MentalHelp.net, behavioural therapy for depression focuses on helping patients learn and practice new skills to avoid depression, as opposed to examining unconscious factors that may cause depression.

Keith Vaughn is an artist and writer in Asheville, NC. Vaughn regularly writes essays and fine art reviews for Bees And Trees Blog. He also paints and exhibits his work regularly. He holds a Master of Fine Arts from the Cranbrook Academy of Art.